As international travel is still not a widely available option, more and more people are looking at domestic travel for this summer. Many want a change in scenery and enjoy the outdoors again after months of self-quarantine. Like most American travelers, I have turned towards taking road trips within the U.S. due to the coronavirus pandemic. If you are looking to travel, please do so responsibly and cautiously which include practicing social distancing and wearing a face mask. I do not encourage any travel that cannot be done safely. That being said, I have taken a few road trips to my surrounding areas, and want to share safety tips from experience for those who want to take road trips today. If you’re planning to hit the road, follow these safety tips for road trips during coronavirus times to lower the risk of getting yourself and others sick.
1. Plan in advance
Gone are the days of spontaneous road trips. Please be responsible and plan your route in advance. Preparation is key in taking road trips during the coronavirus outbreak. Research the places you’re visiting and ask yourself these questions:
- Are there any restrictions imposed on visiting?
- Are there any requirements for self-quarantine upon arrival?
- What is the rate of infection in the area you’re visiting?
- Are you visiting communities hit hard by the coronavirus or are more susceptible to the virus?
- Will you be able to maintain a 6-foot distance between yourself and others throughout your travel?
Map out your route and plan for your stops for gas, food, and breaks. Download an offline map on your phone in case you lose cell signal. Have a backup plan in case of road closures. Research if there are any relevant travel advisories for the states you’ll be passing through.
2. Take extra cautionary measures at rest stops and gas stations
Rest stops and gas stations are popular spots for travelers from all over to gather. Take proper measures to avoid close proximity with others and wear a mask. Try not to touch anything and avoid crowded bathrooms. Additionally, the gas pumps, number pads, and touch screens at gas stations are touched by a number people in a day so make sure to sanitize your hands after getting gas.
3. Pack snacks and drinks
Pack snacks and drinks to minimize the number of times you have to stop for food on your trip. I like to keep several bottles of water and a variety of snacks such as almonds, crackers, peanut butter, granola bars, and fruit handy to avoid going into a gas station or pulling up at a fast food establishment. The less you have to interact with other people the better.
4. Use electronic payment methods
Handling paper money and coins increases the chances of spread so use electronic payment methods such a credit and debit cards or even your smartphone when you can. You won’t have to hand the cashier your card at most places and can simply swipe or tap. If you’re extra cautious, you can wipe down your plastic afterwards.
5. Bring sanitizing supplies
It’s important to bring along sanitizing supplies for road trips during coronavirus times. These can include products for keeping both hands and surfaces clean and disinfected. I would bring items such as hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes. Needless to say, practice good hygiene on the road as you would at home which includes washing your hands thoroughly after using the restroom and before eating. Additionally, you want to make sure you bring plenty of extra masks to wear in all indoor public places, or outdoor spaces where you can’t maintain a 6-foot distance from others.
6. Get food to-go or eat at off-peak hours
While dine-in service have resumed in many places, it is best to order takeout or go through a drive-through. I’ve noticed that many local restaurants have online platforms where you can easily place your order and pick it up when it is ready. Typically when I grab takeout, I find a nice park or quiet area to eat rather than being cooped up in my car. For sit-down meals, it is best to eat at off-peak hours to ensure social distancing. Most restaurants have enforced changes such as limits on the number of guests allowed inside and extra space between tables, however, based on experience, there have been establishments that are business as usual. It is best to eat during off-peak hours such as lunch at 11:00 AM and dinner around 5:00 PM to avoid crowded dining situations.
7. Know where you’re spending the night
Going back to my first point — if you need to stay at a hotel overnight, you should have a confirmed reservation prior to beginning your road trip. I’ve stayed at Marriott hotels during my recent travels, and I felt very safe. The check-in and check-out process is contactless, the staff all wore masks, and there are plastic shields between the front desk and guests. No one gathered in the lobby or other public areas in my experience. Another change I noticed is that breakfast is grab-and-go versus the typical breakfast buffet.
I would also suggest keeping to your room and not using any of the amenities such as the pool or gym. Additionally, to maintain social distancing, wait for an empty elevator rather than getting on one with other guests. I would also sanitize “high-touch” surfaces in your room which includes doorknobs, handles, light switches, and TV remote. If you’re staying more than one night, you could request to forgo housekeeping services which allows you to control sanitization and limit the number of people who come in and out of your room during your stay.
8. Avoid areas where social distancing is difficult
Downtown areas and popular tourist attractions make maintaining a 6-foot distance hard. I suggest avoiding areas where social distancing can be difficult. During my travels, I’ve been waking up super early and going to popular areas first to avoid crowds. Plan your day around when you expect others to NOT be there.
Practice the safety tips for road trips mentioned above to keep your and others safe during the current coronavirus situation. Before you hit the road, please look at CDC guidelines and check continuously for updates as the situation changes. Once again, I cannot condone any travel that cannot be done safely. If you choose to go on a road trip today, please act responsibly to minimize the risk. Wear a mask, wash your hands thoroughly, avoid close contact with other people, don’t touch your face, and take extra steps to protect yourself and others.
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